USDA Releases Farmer Bridge Assistance Program Payment Rates
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has officially released the long-awaited payment rates for the Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA) Program, providing clarity and certainty for producers planning the 2026 growing season. Announced late last year, the FBA Program delivers $12 billion in total assistance, with $11 billion allocated to row crop farmers and $1 billion dedicated to specialty crop producers.
According to USDA officials, the program is designed to offer short-term financial stability while broader efforts continue to strengthen farm markets and the agricultural safety net. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins emphasized the importance of predictable support for producers as planting decisions approach.
“President Trump committed to increase certainty in the farm economy, and farmers can count on these payment rate calculations when going to the bank as they plan for the spring planting season. Putting Farmers First means delivering real relief when it matters. Farmers who qualify for the FBA Program can expect payments in their bank accounts by February 28, 2026,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “These one-time payments give farmers the bridge to continue to feed and clothe America and the world while the Trump Administration continues opening new markets and strengthening the farm safety net. USDA is making this process as simple and seamless as possible so producers can focus on what they do best – feeding and fueling our nation.”
Commodity Per-Acre Payment Rates
USDA released the following FBA Program per-acre payment rates:
- Barley: $20.51
- Canola: $23.57
- Chickpeas (Large): $26.46
- Chickpeas (Small): $33.36
- Corn: $44.36
- Cotton: $117.35
- Flax: $8.05
- Lentils: $23.98
- Mustard: $23.21
- Oats: $81.75
- Peanuts: $55.65
- Peas: $19.60
- Rice: $132.89
- Safflower: $24.86
- Sesame: $13.68
- Sorghum: $48.11
- Soybeans: $30.88
- Sunflower: $17.32
- Wheat: $39.35
What Farmers Should Do Next
Producers interested in participating in the USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance Program should review their eligibility and acreage information as soon as possible. For detailed guidance on qualification requirements and enrollment procedures, farmers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) office.
With payment rates now finalized, the FBA Program provides a critical financial bridge for American agriculture heading into the 2026 season.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.